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Travelers rely on technology to enhance vacation and travel experiences including finding entertainment, lodging and dining, sharing photos online, and the many other benefits of being connected.  As you embark upon your next adventure, increase your safety by following simple practices to keep your vacation plans free from cybercriminal meddling.   To assist in your efforts, the team has compiled a Cyber Secure Traveling Resource Page noting security risks and mitigation recommendations to consider prior to and while traveling.


cartoon hippo, GW's unofficial mascot, holding a lock This content is presented by the GW IT Cybersecurity Risk and Assurance team. #CyberSafeGW is a shared responsibility, if you see something, say something. Report suspicious digital activities, including phishing emails, to abuse[@]gwu.edu.


IT Support Questions? For IT support, please contact the Information Technology Support Center at 202-994-GWIT (4948), ithelp[@]gwu.edu, or visit ithelp.gwu.edu

CyberSafe Travel

The middle of summer is when most people decided to take vacation or holiday, so July marks Travel Security Awareness Month. The peak of travel season is a great opportunity to remind people to prioritize both physical and cyber security while traveling. Whether for business or leisure, travelers should remain vigilant in unfamiliar locations, be aware of their surroundings, and exercise caution when using public transportation or exploring new areas. Securing belongings, using reputable transportation services, and staying informed about local safety conditions are essential steps. On the cyber front, travelers must be careful using public Wi-Fi networks, as they can be susceptible to cyberattacks. Be sure to secure your cell phone, use virtual private networks (VPNs)enabling multi-factor authentication, and updating software. These are critical things you can do to protect against cyber threats, especially when traveling.

Cyber Talk – CyberSafe Travel

GW IT Security Risk and Assurance CyberSafe Travel Webinar Wednesday July 9, 2025, 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Register Now for the Zoom Session  (GW Community)

Cyber Secure Traveling – Guide

Resources provided to the GW community on secure travel including links to previous Cyber Talks on staying CyberSafe while traveling.


unofficial GW hippo mascot holding a lockThis content is presented by the GW IT Cybersecurity Risk and Assurance team. Maintaining a #CyberSafeGW is a shared responsibility, if you see something, say something. Report suspicious digital activities, including phishing emails, to abuse[@]gwu.edu.


IT Support Questions? For IT support, please contact the Information Technology Support Center at 202-994-GWIT (4948), ithelp[@]gwu.edu, or visit ithelp.gwu.edu

TSA warns of 'Juice Jacking' 

Some FCC tips to avoid “juice jacking” include:

  • Using AC power outlets can help you avoid any potential risks, so be sure to pack AC, car chargers, and your own USB cables with you when traveling.
  • Carry an external battery.
  • Consider carrying a charging-only cable, which prevents data from sending or receiving while charging, from a trusted supplier.
  • If you plug your device into a USB port and a prompt appears asking you to select “share data,” or “trust this computer,” or “charge only,” always select “charge only.”

Contact the GW Cybersecurity Team at infosec[@]gwu.edu for information about no cost USB data blockers available for the GW community.  Pick one up in person at the GW's Data Summit Event Tuesday June 10!

Continued vigilance is critical to maintaining a CyberSafe GW!


unofficial GW hippo mascot holding a lockThis content is presented by the GW IT Cybersecurity Risk and Assurance team. Maintaining a #CyberSafeGW is a shared responsibility, if you see something, say something. Report suspicious digital activities, including phishing emails, to abuse[@]gwu.edu.


IT Support Questions? For IT support, please contact the Information Technology Support Center at 202-994-GWIT (4948), ithelp[@]gwu.edu, or visit ithelp.gwu.edu

National Cybersecurity Alliance Logo

World Password Day is May 1st!

Create and Use Strong Passwords

Online Safety and Privacy Jan 10, 2025 | 4 Min Read 
Passwords are the keys to safeguarding your digital and online life. They are your first line of defense. And knowing how to create and store strong passwords is one of the most critical aspects of everyday cybersecurity. This World Password Day, take some time to make sure you are following these best practices to stay safe online! Read more

What is Multifactor Authentication (MFA) and Why Should You Use It?

Online Safety and Privacy Jan 17, 2025 | 5 Min Read 
Multi-factor authentication adds a whole new layer of security to each of your accounts. When you turn on MFA, you use more than a password to log in. We recommend turning on MFA for every account that permits it. Read More

Password Managers

Online Safety and Privacy Sep 6, 2022 | 4 Min Read
Our advice about unique, strong, and complex passwords probably seems overwhelming if you've never used a password manager before. However, modern services can help you breathe a lot easier. Password managers have made it easier than ever to maintain strong passwords! Read More

Will Passwords Become a Thing of the Past?

Online Safety and Privacy  May 18, 2023 | 2 Min Read
What to know about passwordless authentication and passkeys.
Passkeys are an exciting new technology that remove the need for passwords. Instead of entering a password, with passkeys you typically log in by having a secure device handy (like a phone) and using biometrics, like a facial scan.  Read More


Security Bytes: Passwords

Security Bytes short video series password etiquette episode Watch 1 min Video 


GW Cybersecurity Password Resource Page


unofficial GW hippo mascot holding a lockThis content is presented by the GW IT Cybersecurity Risk and Assurance team. #SecuringGW is a shared responsibility, if you see something, say something. Report suspicious digital activities, including phishing emails, to abuse[@]gwu.edu.


IT Support Questions? For IT support, please contact the Information Technology Support Center at 202-994-GWIT (4948), ithelp[@]gwu.edu, or visit ithelp.gwu.edu

Don't let your guard down while you are relaxing.  Remember cyber criminals remain hard at work trying to compromise your data. Reviewing the following resources may assist you in increasing your cybsercurity while traveling.  Please note our Cyber Secure Traveling resource page on this blog site as well.

National Cybersecurity Alliance Vacation and Travel Security Tips - National Cybersecurity Alliance

Travel lightly. Limit the number of devices you take with you on your trip. The more laptops, tablets and smartphones you take with you, the more risk you open yourself up to. 

Forbes Travel Warning: Cybersecurity Emerges As A Top Security Threat

As technology continues to integrate deeper into our travel experiences, the risk of cyber-attacks while booking trips online or accessing unsecured networks in foreign countries is a real concern.

 Travel + Leisure The 14 Best Travel Safety Devices, According to T+L Editors

Travelers - United States Department of State

Preparing for a Trip Abroad Advisories: As a first step in planning any trip abroad, check the Travel Advisories for your intended destination. International Financial Scams: U.S. citizens can become victims of scams at home or abroad. 

Travel Tips - Transportation Security Administration

The TSA Travel Tips page provides essential guidance for air travelers, covering topics such as packing smart, understanding security screening procedures, and preparing for travel with special items like medications or firearms.

The links above are provided for informational purposes - inclusion of any external links or product references does not constitute a recommendation nor specific endorsement by GW or GW IT Security.

Short list of GW resources from Cyber Secure Traveling resource page

 

unofficial GW hippo mascot holding a lockThis content is presented by the GW IT Cybersecurity Risk and Assurance team. #SecuringGW is a shared responsibility, if you see something, say something. Report suspicious digital activities, including phishing emails, to abuse[@]gwu.edu.


IT Support Questions? For IT support, please contact the Information Technology Support Center at 202-994-GWIT (4948), ithelp[@]gwu.edu, or visit ithelp.gwu.edu

While you’re taking a break or vacation, cyber attackers remain hard at work trying to compromise your data. Join the GW IT cybersecurity risk and assurance team for a 45-minute overview of precautions and practices to maintain and enhance cybersecurity while traveling. Topics in this Cyber Talk will include securing your devices, connecting to WiFi networks, special considerations when traveling internationally, and more.

GW IT Security Risk and Assurance Cyber Talk Webinar Thursday, April 24, 2025 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM Register Now for the Zoom Session  (GW Community Only)

Also take a look at our Cyber Secure Traveling Resource Page which notes specific security risks and mitigation recommendations to consider prior to and while traveling.


unofficial GW hippo mascot holding a lockThis content is presented by the GW IT Cybersecurity Risk and Assurance team. #SecuringGW is a shared responsibility, if you see something, say something. Report suspicious digital activities, including phishing emails, to abuse[@]gwu.edu.


IT Support Questions? For IT support, please contact the Information Technology Support Center at 202-994-GWIT (4948), ithelp[@]gwu.edu, or visit ithelp.gwu.edu

GW IT Risk and Assurance provides information and resources through workshops and webinars as well as posts to our blog site.  The team is highlighting resources related to password management.

A GW IT Security Risk and Assurance Cyber Talk Password Managers 411 is scheduled for Monday, March 17, 2025 12:00PM to 12:45pm.  This session will review password threats and keys to strong, effective, and unique passwords.  The role and benefits of using password managers will be addressed as they can greatly assist you in keeping your secure. Register Now for the Zoom Session (GW Community Only)

The team has also compiled a Password Managers Resource Page providing additional password management considerations and content.


unofficial GW hippo mascot holding a lockThis content is presented by the GW IT Cybersecurity Risk and Assurance team. #SecuringGW is a shared responsibility, if you see something, say something. Report suspicious digital activities, including phishing emails, to abuse[@]gwu.edu.


IT Support Questions? For IT support, please contact the Information Technology Support Center at 202-994-GWIT (4948), ithelp[@]gwu.edu, or visit ithelp.gwu.edu

GW IT Risk and Assurance provides information and resources through workshops and webinars as well as posts to our blog site.  The team is highlighting travel considerations in this post as everyone begins travel planning.

Travelers rely on technology to enhance vacation and travel experiences including finding entertainment, lodging and dining, sharing photos online, and the many other benefits of being connected. As you embark upon your next adventure, increase your safety by following simple practices to keep your vacation plans free from cybercriminal meddling.   To assist in your efforts, the team has prepared the following resources:

A Cyber Talk - Traveling Securely will present tips to ensuring your devices and data are as secure as possible while traveling.  Register for the Zoom session  scheduled for March 6 at 11:00 AM 

The team has also compiled a Cyber Secure Traveling Resource Page noting security risks and mitigation recommendations to consider prior to and while traveling.


unofficial GW hippo mascot holding a lockThis content is presented by the GW IT Cybersecurity Risk and Assurance team. #SecuringGW is a shared responsibility, if you see something, say something. Report suspicious digital activities, including phishing emails, to abuse[@]gwu.edu.


IT Support Questions? For IT support, please contact the Information Technology Support Center at 202-994-GWIT (4948), ithelp[@]gwu.edu, or visit ithelp.gwu.edu